As you read, consider (and take notes…) the following for each of the papers:
What is the main point of the reading?
What are the points of evidence used to support the main point?
How effectively is the evidence presented?
Does the evidence flow logically and smoothly from one point to another?
Does the organization of the points in the essay make sense?
Is there any bias or missing information in the essay?
Is the tone the author used appropriate for the topic and the audience?
Step 2: Plan Your Essay
Your essay should have four parts (this does not mean four paragraphs).
Introduction
Explain why you are writing the paper. What is the purpose of the essay? Other than the obvious, “it is the assignment,” why are you writing the essay? (Hint: the purpose of the essay is often found in the essay directions.)
Thesis (included in the introduction) – sum up the point of the paper in a single sentence.
Response to Essay Example #1 (about a page and a half – multiple paragraphs as needed)
Introduce the writing by identifying the author’s name (when available) and the title of the writing. (Remember that the title of articles are enclosed in quotation marks.)
Identify the primary point of the writing.
Summarize the main points of evidence supporting the primary point.
Include the arguments presented.
Include any findings in the writing.
Analyze and critique the writing.
Discuss strengths and weaknesses.
State your informed opinions about the clarity, relevancy, and accuracy of the writing, using specific examples from the writing to support your statements.[2]
Response to Essay Example #2 (about a page and a half – multiple paragraphs as needed)
Same format as your response to Essay Example #1.
Conclusion
Restate your thesis.
Remind readers of the points discussed.
Avoid quotations or additional arguments.
Offer a final thought that encourages your readers to continue to think about your response to the readings.
Remember, you are not agreeing with or disagreeing with the author’s argument, you are responding to how effectively the author made the argument.
Step 3: Write Your Essay
